Last Tuesday's TeleClass "How to plan and use PR and Publicity for Business Growth" is already seeing some amazing results. Close to 150 businesses registered for the call. Here's what some of the participants had to say afterwards:

"Hi Phil, thank you for giving everyone the opportunity to listen into your PR Planning Teleclass. I had some great ideas, and am now motivated to make media calls. The DIY PR Kit will be invaluable."

"Thanks Philippa. Really helpful in refocusing on PR and some great tips."

"Thank you, the telecall was great, I really appreciate all the information and your insider knowledge."

A great number went on to jump at the End Of Financial Year sale I announced, snaffling up my DIY PR eKit for a bargain $99. There are still Star Class Monthly and Annual Memberships available, visit the website for details.

Below are a few of the Q&As I received on the call:

Do I really just call the journalist?
Yes, that is how over 80 per cent of the stories you read, watch or listen to start out. By someone (usually a PR agent) picking up the phone and asking a journalist or producer to feature a story.

When I want to get magazines or TV to know about my product do I have to write a press release What is the best way?
Journalists simply don't have time to read through every news release they receive, and many of the ones in their inbox are deleted. When you're pitching the media you're effectively cold calling to sell your story. A succinct email saying why you're contacting them and why it's relevant to them is better than a lengthy press kit. But you may still want one on hand. They're great tools for other clients and investors, as well as useful to have when the journalist requests extra information.

Is there a good, quick way of finding out which publications our target audience reads/listens too?
The best way is to ask them - run a quick survey amongst your customers or prospects. Go into a newsagency and look for publications that target your demographic. Call the media outlet and ask for circulation statistics.

If you write an article for an industry magazine, can you pitch the same article to a rival publication in the same industry?
Not unless you want to upset both editors and set back your media relations efforts for years to come! Exclusivity is really important when contributing to publications. All journalists like to be first to 'break news' - it's great for ratings. Offering a published story to a rival is a no-no.